wordle/.claude/skills/gds-create-narrative/checklist.md

Narrative Design Workflow Validation Checklist

Purpose: Validate narrative design outputs are complete, cohesive, and ready for implementation.

Scope: Story-driven games and applications (follows GDD workflow)

Expected Output: narrative-design.md

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1. Output File Exists

• narrative-design.md created in output folder
• GDD.md exists (narrative workflow requires GDD first)
• No unfilled {{template_variables}}

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2. Story Foundation

Core Elements

• Narrative premise clearly stated (elevator pitch, 2-3 sentences)
• Core themes identified (2-4 meaningful themes)
• Tone and atmosphere established
• Premise is compelling and fits game type

Story Structure

• Story structure chosen (3-act, hero's journey, branching, etc.)
• Acts/sections broken down with clear progression
• Major story beats documented (key moments that drive narrative)
• Structure fits narrative complexity level

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3. Characters

Protagonist(s)

• Background and motivation explained
• Character arc defined (how they change)
• Internal and external conflicts identified

Antagonist(s)

• Motivation clear (why they oppose protagonist)
• Goals and methods explained
• Not one-dimensional

Supporting Cast

• Major supporting characters documented
• Each has distinct role in story
• Character relationships mapped

Character Arcs

• Major characters have starting → transformation → ending states
• Arc progression makes sense

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4. World and Lore

• World setting defined (time, place, world type)
• World rules explained (magic, technology, society)
• History and backstory documented
• Key locations described with narrative significance

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5. Dialogue and Delivery

Dialogue Framework

• Dialogue style established
• Key conversations identified
• Branching dialogue system described (if applicable)

Narrative Delivery

• Cutscenes/cinematics approach defined
• In-game storytelling methods explained
• Optional vs. required content distinguished
• Multiple endings documented (if applicable)

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6. Gameplay Integration

• Narrative-gameplay harmony addressed (how story and mechanics connect)
• Story gates explained (how narrative controls progression)
• Player agency level defined (can player affect story?)
• Integration doesn't fight game design

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7. Production Scope

• Writing scope estimated (word count, scene count, dialogue lines)
• Scope realistic for project level
• Localization considerations noted (if applicable)
• Voice acting plans documented (if applicable)

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8. Consistency with GDD

• Narrative aligns with GDD game design
• Tone matches GDD art/audio direction
• Story supports game mechanics (doesn't contradict)
• No conflicts between narrative and gameplay

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9. Critical Failures (Auto-Fail)

• ❌ No GDD (narrative workflow requires GDD first)
• ❌ No character arcs (protagonist has no development)
• ❌ No story beats (major moments not identified)
• ❌ Contradicts GDD (narrative fights game design)

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Validation Notes

Document any findings:

• Narrative strength: [Compelling / Interesting / Adequate / Weak]
• Strengths:
• Issues to address:
• Recommended actions:

Ready for solutioning? [Yes / No - explain]

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Adapt based on narrative complexity level (Critical/Heavy/Moderate/Light).